NEW! ingredient corner: licorice

We’re pretty transparent about what ingredients we use here at Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare™, but just because I know what’s in our products doesn’t mean I know what they all do! I figured that I’m not alone on this — I tend to focus on immediate results of a product than think about the science behind how it works. Because of this, I decided to start this feature on the blog – Ingredient Corner! If you have a particular ingredient you’d like to know more about, comment and I’ll see what I can do.

If you can believe it, today (April 12th) is International Licorice Day! I have never been a fan of this ingredient’s taste, be it in anisette cookies or black jellybeans, but the benefits of applying it to skin are pretty fabulous.

Licorice contains a chemical compound that is a powerful skin brightening agent — not only is it effective on hyperpigmentation, but it’s also helpful in correcting undereye circles. It’s gentler than chemical skin brighteners, so even those with sensitive skin can benefit from trying it. Lift and Lighten features licorice in its ingredients, as well as Arbutin and Pearl Powder, all of which brighten the appearance of undereye circles.

Licorice also has soothing anti-inflammatory properties — making it perfect for rosacea-prone or sensitive skin. It also contains anti-bacterial agents that remove impurities from the skin and regulate oil production, treating acne-prone skin. The Clarifying Colloidal Sulfur Mask contains licorice in its ingredients, in addition to Colloidal Sulfur, Farnesol, and Retinol, for a clearer, brighter, healthier complexion.

Licorice is a potent antioxidant, protecting your skin from free radicals that cause wrinkling, sagging, and overall aging of the skin. You can find it in Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Solution, one of our ultimate skin-defending potions, which firms, brightens, and smoothes skin’s texture.

In case anyone out there is like me and has both a sensitive nose and a licorice aversion, never fear: none of these products smell like licorice — they’ve just harnessed the ingredient’s awesome powers.

Have you tried any of these products? Let me know what you think! Am I the only person out there who despises licorice? And are there any ingredients that you’re particularly interested in learning about next?